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Ear Infection Advice for Adults

Otitis media is a middle ear infection that occurs in children and sometimes adults due to a viral infection. During the infection, fluid builds up which causes pain and often produces a ringing noise in the ear. According to the Mayo Clinic, most ear infections clear up on their own within a few days. In extreme cases, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection, although it is recommended to wait 72 hours after symptoms begin before contacting your doctor for medication.

  1. Time

    • Ear infections go away soon after your cold or flu subsides, eliminating the need for prescription medication and at-home remedies. Some of the symptoms associated with ear infections include fevers, earaches, temporary hearing loss and blockage. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are over-the-counter medications you can use to alleviate pain. Apply a cool compress to your forehead to break your fever. Do not rub or pick your ears while your ears are blocked, as it can exacerbate the problem.

    Oral Medication

    • Amoxicillin is prescribed for clearing up an ear infection if it is a bacterial infection. If you have fluid behind the ear, corticosteroids may also be prescribed to alleviate your symptoms. When taking prescription medication, it is important to closely follow directions and use the medication until it runs out, as the infection may come back if you stop your treatment. The medication clears up the ear infection within a few days after treatment. Side effects for amoxicillin include vomiting, nausea, stomach pain and headaches.

    At-Home Remedies

    • Apply a warm compress over the affected area to relieve the pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, you can also use a warm, moist cloth over the ear to reduce symptoms. According to Alan R. Greene, author of "The Parent's Complete Guide to Ear Infections," warm ear drops can reduce pain and inflammation in your inner ear, but you must not touch the ear while in use as it can become contaminated. Use a sterilized ear dropper with a mixture of white vinegar and water, and drop 2 to 3 drops into the ear. The pain and hearing loss should be alleviated within 20 to 30 minutes.

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